Janice Riley Heard "Meemaw"

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Janice Riley Heard, affectionately known to many as "Meemaw." Born on December 24, 1948, in Fairfax, South Carolina, Janice departed this life peacefully on February 9, 2026, at Wellstar Medical Center. Her life was a beacon of love, dedication, and service to her family, friends, and community. Janice was the cherished daughter of the late Marion F. Riley Sr. and Addie Mae Littlejohn Riley. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harrison "H.P." Heard, whom she married on April 24, 1971, along with several dear family members, including her siblings and in-laws. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through her surviving family: her daughter, Pamela (Damon) Foley, son Ahmad (Denise) Heard, five grandchildren Dalyn (Shia) Foley, Aiden Heard (Nay), Ittilous Brown, Juleigh Fouche, and Dakale Fluellen, and one great-grandchild, Daelyn H. Foley. Janice was also blessed with a devoted god-sister, Donna L. Webb, brother-in-laws Anthony Beard and Brookie Priester, and cherished godchildren Francine G. Tompkins, Cedric Jones, Alexandria K. Bennett, and Chance Henderson. Her family was her heart, and she was their unwavering pillar of strength and joy. A proud graduate of Fairfax Training School, Janice went on to attend Paine College on a basketball scholarship, which instilled in her a lifelong passion for sports. Her enthusiasm for the Los Angeles Lakers and Kobe Bryant, the South Carolina Gamecocks, and NFL coach Mike Tomlinson of the Pittsburgh Steelers was well-known among her family and friends. Janice dedicated an incredible 53 years to Piedmont University Hospital, where she began her career and served faithfully until her passing. Her commitment and hard work as a Human Resource Secretary were unmatched, making her the longest-tenured employee and earning her a beloved place in the hearts of many colleagues. Her humor and dedication left an indelible mark, famously joking that she helped lay the first brick at the hospital. A devoted member of Harmony Baptist Church, Janice found joy and purpose in serving her congregation. Her voice graced the Susie Mae Turner Choir, and she was a steadfast Deaconess, always eager to lend a helping hand or a kind word to those in need. Janice was known for her loyalty and loving nature, always the first to call with a heartfelt birthday song or to celebrate the milestones of those she held dear. Her warmth and generosity were unmatched, and she enriched the lives of all who were blessed to know her. "Aunti Janice/Meemaw gone be there," was a phrase that rang true for anyone who needed her. A service to honor Janice's extraordinary life will be held on February 18, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Harmony Baptist Church, located at 930 Hopkins Street. The family expresses deep gratitude to all who have supported them during this difficult time. Your words, love, and prayers have been a source of comfort and strength. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Wells, the staff at AO Multispecialty Clinic, the staff on 5 North at Wellstar Medical Center, Williams Funeral Home, and all program participants. As we celebrate Janice's life, we remember her with joy, gratitude, and love. Her spirit will continue to guide us, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this profound loss. May God bless each of you.